AES Chooses Ohio for Smart Operations Center

AES cites the state’s skilled workforce as well as Dayton’s dedication to innovation as reasons for selecting Ohio for the new center.

Company Profile

AES is a Fortune 500 global power company providing affordable, sustainable energy to 14 countries through a diverse portfolio of distribution businesses as well as thermal and renewable generation facilities. AES Ohio is the principal subsidiary of DPL Inc. (DPL), a regional energy provider and an AES company. AES Ohio, a regulated electric utility, provides service to over 527,000 customers in West Central Ohio.

Business Need

Using leading-edge technology, the AES Smart Operations Center would be the first of its kind in the United States, using data to increase the efficiency of electric operations across the country. This center would also integrate two functions into a single location: AES Global Performance Monitoring and Analytics Center and AES Remote Operations Control Center. Now, it would be possible for AES to monitor, remotely operate, and improve the management of power generation operations around the world from one central location, whether generated from solar, wind, hydro, thermal, or energy storage facilities.

The facility represents AES’ longstanding commitment to the digital transformation of the energy industry, accelerating a safer and cleaner future in the U.S. and globally. The digitalization employed by AES is greener and more sustainable, with potential implications for increased safety and resiliency in the energy grid. Therefore, AES’ integration is critical as the company – and the energy industry as a whole – intensifies its reliance on data and smart grid technologies. The location of such an integral and innovative center is crucial. AES considered selecting from their existing operations centers in Indianapolis, Los Angeles, and Dayton for this important consolidation.

Ohio Solutions

JobsOhio, The Dayton Development Coalition (DDC), and the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce worked with AES to choose Ohio for their Smart Operations Center. Crediting the outstanding talent available in Ohio, the Smart Operations Center will support Ohio’s workforce development, as the state works to meet increasing digital technology demands. "The decision to invest in Ohio is a testament to the skilled workforce in the city of Dayton, Montgomery County and the region," said Kristina Lund, AES Ohio President and CEO. Overall, this project retained 55 employees and $5.87 million in payroll and will create 31 new jobs and $2.825 million in new payroll. The AES Smart Operations Center will attract and employ advanced technology engineers and data scientists.

"Our purpose is to accelerate the future of energy, and AES is a great example of how new solutions will help lead a responsible energy transition. While located here in Dayton, the Smart Operations Center is an integral part of our overall AES global operations," said Bernerd Da Santos, AES EVP and Chief Operating and Infrastructure Officer. "Dayton's dedication to innovation makes this a perfect location for the digital hub as we continuously look for better ways to serve the energy sector, our customers and the communities where we operate."